Living Hope Day Shelter

Expressed deep concern over placing a high-volume, no-barrier homeless day shelter in a residential neighborhood surrounded by schools, citing documented increases in police calls and security issues in other cities.

Highlighted that four schools with 2,700 students sit within 500 yards of the proposed shelter site, arguing that the location violates the city's stated shelter strategy of avoiding schools.

Questioned why Living Hope is purchasing a $1.75 million building without operating showers, and asked how downtown police and businesses will handle an influx of unhoused individuals.

Played a video of city staff previously stating that no-barrier facilities are not appropriate near schools or children, urging council to halt the approval and reconsider the location.

Spoke as an immediate neighbor about expected property value impacts, petty crime increases, and the lack of an after-hours dispersal plan for shelter clients.

Spoke as a parent of children attending the nearby School of Wonder, questioning how city planning decisions permitted a low-barrier shelter directly within sight of a recently approved school.

Representing the School of Wonder, supported Living Hope's mission but questioned where clients will go at closing time and how student safety will be maintained one block away.

New Hanover County Schools Superintendent expressed district safety concerns regarding the permanent shelter location within walking distance of three local schools.